Few Japanese fast-food chains have more straightforward names than Mister Donut, which has long been the country’s most successful purveyor of doughnuts. However, while the word “doughnut” first conjures up a ring-shaped dessert, in Japan it can also refer to a round fried bread with a savory filling, and it’s this second definition of doughnut that has given rise to Mister Donut’s latest creation.
Collectively, they’re called the Zakumocchi Dog series, with zaku meaning “crunchy” and mocchi meaning “chewy,” as Mr. Donut promises a texture that’s a bit crunchy on the outside but gets softer on the inside (the “Dog” part of the name seems to be because they’re a bit like the rectangular shape of a hot dog).
Mister Donut has unveiled three Zakumocchi Dogs, starting with the Zakumocchi Curry flavor. The “curry doughnut” is a longtime Japanese bakery signature, but Mister Donut’s version is different, with an opening that lets you peek at the curry filling and a slice of runny egg on top.
Next up is the Zakumocchi Dog Mexican Meat, inspired by chili con carne. The spicy filling contains ground beef, tomatoes, onions, and beans, and is topped off with a swirl of cheddar cheese.
Finally, the Zakumocchi Dog Egg (or Zakumocchi Dog if you order it in Japanese) takes a cue from Japan’s unique egg salad sandwich and features a soft-boiled egg slice, just like the Zakumocchi Dog.
All three flavors are priced at 308 yen and are available now. Remember, if salty fried bread doesn’t count as a donut for you, that means you can pair the Zakumocchi Dog Egg with a dessert from Mister Donut without feeling guilty about eating two donuts in one sitting.
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